Table of Contents

yuèdǐ: 月底 - End of the Month

Quick Summary

Core Meaning

Character Breakdown

Cultural Context and Significance

The rhythm of “月底” is a fundamental part of modern life in China. Unlike some Western countries where bi-weekly pay cycles are common, the vast majority of salaries, bills, and rent payments in China operate on a monthly schedule. This creates a shared cultural experience and feeling around this time period. For many, “月底” is a time of anticipation and financial pressure. It's when rent is due and budgets are tight while waiting for the next paycheck. This has given rise to the popular slang term 月光族 (yuèguāng zú), or the “moonlight clan.” This clever pun plays on 月光 (yuèguāng), which means “moonlight,” but also can be read as “month empty” (月-month, 光-empty/used up). A “月光族” is someone who has spent their entire salary by the end of the month, living paycheck to paycheck. Asking a friend if they have money to spare near the “月底” might be met with a wry smile and a complaint about being “月光族”. This monthly cycle of scarcity (“月底”) followed by temporary abundance (“月初”, a new month's salary) is a common topic of conversation and jokes, reflecting the economic realities for many urban young people.

Practical Usage in Modern China

“月底” is used constantly in everyday conversation, business, and planning.

The term is neutral in connotation and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

Example Sentences

Nuances and Common Mistakes